Little leadership, little motivation - Research Analyst CENTER FOR DISEASE DYNAMICS, ECONOMICS & POLICY Employee Review

CDDEP offers ample opportunities for new grads (i) to build their technical, analytical and writing skills, (ii) to network with funders and collaborators, and (iii) to contribute to projects at all stages of the research process (including publishing). Senior management has decades of experience, a high level of expertise across a wide range of disciplines, and a willingness to teach, listen and incorporate ideas from junior researchers. The organization as a whole is also very supportive of junior researchers who depart to pursue graduate/postgraduate degrees.

The work can be demanding at times and striking a healthy work-life balance is a must. The organization would benefit from more mid-level researchers (e.g., post-docs) who can support and provide technical guidance and assist senior level researchers in the responsibility of developing junior staff. Closer adherence to the policies, guidelines, and resources articulated in the employee handbook would also help provide greater structure and harmony in the workplace (within and between offices), and improve communication between junior and senior level staff (e.g., annual performance reviews, opportunities for promotion).

Pros come with many caveats, see Cons. Possibility to publish papers and work on important topics with smart people.

Any success of the company is predicated on contributions of young (and sometimes older), idealistic, and ambitious researchers, but I am not sure if they will continue to attract decent talent if they do not change, especially in current context. Cons were true during my time there and from what I understand the trajectory suggests things will get worse despite company superficial rebranding efforts as One Health Trust. 1. Poor compensation and benefits 2. Top leadership does not care above employee growth or career progression but only the maximum work they can extract from employees at the lowest possible cost. 3. Company does not espouse values a public health organization (pressure on employees to come to office/travel during COVID, health insurance, etc.). 4. Your ability to experience pros will depend on who you work with. 5. Broken promises to past employees on visa sponsorships and pressure to work in undesirable locations. I would only work here as a last option and if you do ensure on accomplishing specific goals in the short period you stay. The promise of reaping more over longer period would be a mistake.